With just over two months to go until the introduction of the UK’s first ever ULEZ (Ultra Low Emission Zone), automotive data expert hpi is urging motorists to check if they will be liable to pay a levy.

hpi has developed a free online tool to check the Euro emissions rating of any vehicle. The tool will help commuters understand how they could be affected by the introduction of clean air zones in Britain’s cities. The first ULEZ comes into force within London from 8 April 2019.

Although the changes apply to all petrol and diesel vehicles, it is estimated that approximately 80% of vans currently on the UK roads will not be compliant with the standards required by the new zone.

After the launch of the UK’s first ULEZ in London, numerous Clean Air Zones (CAZs) will be implemented across UK cities in the next few years. The five cities required to introduce a Clean Air Zone by 2020 are Birmingham, Derby, Leeds, Nottingham and Southampton. The new Government regulations aim to bring nitrogen dioxide levels within the legal limit in the shortest possible time and by 2021 at the latest.

Motorcycles built before 2007, prior to the implementation of the Euro 3 emissions standard, will have to pay when the ULEZ comes into force.

Drivers who enter the capital in vehicles which do not comply with the new emissions will be subject to a £12.50 fee on top of the £11.50 congestion charge. The system replaces the current T-Charge scheme, where motorists who own older vehicles must pay £10 to drive in the city.

Charges will apply once in every 24-hour period (midnight to midnight) when entering or driving in the zone. This would apply seven days a week, 365 days a year.

Newer vehicles and fully electric and hydrogen fuel cell vehicles will not be charged, neither would historic, disabled or military vehicles. Motorcycles with a minimum Euro 3 emission standard will be liable for the charge.

Fernando Garcia, consumer director at hpi, said: “Research has already shown that over a third of motorists had not heard of the Euro Emission Standard classification system, while two thirds of those who had were unsure what category their vehicle fitted in. With only four months to go before the changes first come into effect in London, the changes around vehicle emissions could give motorists a real headache and leave them out of pocket. Our online check is completely free and allows motorists to check the emissions standard of their vehicle and potentially avoid a fine.”